Meet the fifth-graders who started a newspaper at H.C. Storm Elementary in Batavia

Four young writers believe that facts matter. That's why the students who write the 5J Newspaper at H.C. Storm School in Batavia take great care in researching each and every story.

And yes, one has been accused of reporting fake news.

“I wrote a story about a supervolcano,” said Shelby Stauber. “Even when I showed the person my source, he didn't believe it.”

Come on, really? Fifth-graders having to deal with fake news?

The critic didn't deter Shelby and three classmates from continuing to put out their newspaper, an endeavor that the four fifth-graders started this year.

“I write science stories and I only use reliable sources like National Geographic and Live Science,” she added.

Although the kids have tried starting a newspaper in other grades, this is the first time they have been successful. They just published their sixth edition.

“The students initiated the project completely on their own,” said fifth-grade teacher Julie Johnson. “We've talked about how writers have different purposes and passions, and this is how they chose to express themselves during their literacy workshop time when they are being writers.”

“We each try and write stories that we are passionate about,” said Gina Bernacci. “I'm all about stopping animal cruelty. Someday I hope to be an activist.”

“I'm going to start writing sports stories,” said Jessica Bullman, who chose to do a story on the Chicago Bears for the next edition.

Adam Goro's stories revolve around nature and world problems.

The paper is evolving. The four industrious students have added a guest of the week, giving another student an opportunity to be involved in the paper.

“I've put a quiz together for all of our stories,” said Adam. “That gives us 'intel' for how everyone feels about the newspaper and our stories.”

He asks fellow classmates to comment on certain articles.

“I know newspapers don't usually do that,” he said, “but, hey, we're in school so let's shake things up a bit.”

They also include a movie review and a poll of the week.

You won't find a comics section or a weekly crossword puzzle, but you will learn a fun fact.

“The longest word in the English language is pneumonoultramicroscopicsilicovolcanoconiosis,” wrote Shelby. “It's a lung disease.”

These talented young people have the encouragement of the principal, Anne Paonessa, as well as of Johnson.

“Writing is so important,” said Paonessa. “At H.C. Storm, we encourage our students to read and write creatively.”

To give students a comfortable space for reading and writing, Paonessa came up with the idea of creating a reading and writing lounge.

“We now have chromebooks for each student,” she said. “So I decided we needed to take the space that had been our computer lab and turn it into a place where students could read or do creative writing.”

Students walk through the pages of a book to enter the space. Built by parents and painted by art teacher, the entry is welcoming and friendly. Inside, black-and-white photographs of students reading grace the walls. It, too, was a parent project. Colorful and comfortable chairs and couches make the space an area that students are sure to use.

The four reporters use the space to work on the newspaper. There are no plans to cover the midterm elections.

“It just seems like a bunch of people spending a lot of money to be popular,” said Adam.

That editorial comment, shared with sincerity, made me smile.